How Experts Recommend Stopping Lip Biting

You’ve likely experienced the urge to bite your lip, whether by accident or on purpose. This can occur in response to bothersome dry lips, causing you to nibble or gently peel away flaky skin. Alternatively, it may happen involuntarily as a stress reaction, much like how some people bite their nails when anxious.

Evan Rieder, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist from New York City, explains that lip biting is a common behavior that can arise at any point in life. "Many of us have intentionally bitten our lips at some point," he says, "but professional intervention is necessary only if the behavior causes medical issues, disrupts social or work life, or triggers significant emotional distress."

If this situation sounds familiar, consulting a mental health professional may be the best course of action. Dr. Rieder explains that lip or cheek biting is categorized as a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB), involving the persistent biting or chewing of the lips or inner cheeks. This behavior can lead to physical effects like redness, sores, pain, bleeding, and scarring.

Lip biting can even lead to infection, as pointed out by Amy Wechsler, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist. In such cases, treatment involves using an antibiotic ointment and ensuring the lips stay well-moisturized.

While BFRBs can affect anyone, they are particularly common in individuals with co-existing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety or heightened stress. Dr. Rieder emphasizes that behavioral therapy is the main treatment for lip biting, as it helps individuals predict when the urge will arise and take active steps to prevent it.

If you are unable to secure an appointment with a specialist, there are still expert-backed tips to help curb your lip biting habits.

Use a Deterrent During the Day

"Apply an aversive product to your lips, such as petroleum jelly, lipstick, or sunscreen during the day, and reapply it every few hours," advises Dr. Riederer. "When the person starts biting, the unpleasant texture or taste will make them more aware of their actions."

Use a Healing Formula at Night

"At night, I recommend using a zinc oxide paste (the same product you apply to a baby’s bottom)," he continues. "It will harden, protect the lip, and help it heal."

Embrace Mindfulness

A smart way to remind yourself not to bite your lips is by placing sticky notes in places you often look—whether it's a mirror, your laptop screen, or any other noticeable spot—so that the reminders are always in view.

In the end, "any mindfulness activity practiced regularly throughout the day can help reduce stress," says Dr. Rieder. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or using the sticky note method, the key is finding the approach that works best for you.